Jennifer LaVine, a seasoned aerospace and defense professional, is Sikorsky’s Maritime Systems program manager, driving business growth for the MH-60R platform through U.S. Navy partnerships. Her leadership abilities are demonstrated by her expert guidance to customers, tailoring configurations to meet unique mission needs, and securing U.S. Navy contracts with her key proposals.
LaVine’s communication skills are showcased in her ability to manage global commercial and military systems, focusing on aftermarket execution with Polskie Zakłady Lotnicze Sp. z o.o. (PZL Mielec). As Denmark program manager, she handled over $250 million contract, delivering nine aircraft and achieving contract requirements while meeting business objectives.
Adept at self-management and development, LaVine started her career as a quality engineer, earning a patent for her razor handle design. She progressed to become a subject matter expert in Sikorsky’s Naval Hawk government proposal process and led a team to produce a test kit within three months of contract award, ensuring on-time flight test schedule completion.
LaVine’s SWE involvement spans decades, holding leadership roles such as Hartford Section president, SWE awards mentor, and LM SWE Committee Chair, increasing company funding support and membership. She advocates for STEM education, supporting SWE’s congressional hill visits and influencing the 21st Century Community Learning Center budget.
With a B.S. in mechanical engineering, management, and an MBA from RPI, LaVine’s strong educational background, professional experience, and commitment to SWE make her a highly competent engineering leader.
During her tenure in the SWE Senate, LaVine has two primary objectives. First, she is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable culture within SWE. Drawing on her personal experience as an immigrant to the United States and a first-generation college student, LaVine aims to broaden the scope of SWE’s commitment to intersectional diversity, ensuring it encompasses people from all cultural backgrounds.
Second, LaVine is passionate about building a truly global and inclusive SWE, empowering women in engineering and technology across geographic borders and at every stage of their lives. Her diverse professional experience across various international locations gives her unique insights into where SWE can strategically expand its global reach and impact.
